Ahh the exchange of the controversial white elephant gift. Why is it controversial? Because there are so many directions you can possibly go, from silly to slightly sick, the reactions can vary greatly. Plus at the end of it all, you don’t know who’s going to end up with what and people still somehow take it personally.
And when good intentions go awry, look out. That fake vomit that was sure to get some giggles out of your cubemate is not scoring you any points with Sandy from accounting…who’s pregnant…with twins.
So yes, white elephant gift ideas are worth a little brainstorming. Let us help you hit a home run with our white elephant holiday gift guide chock-full of safe yet fun and unique gifts (with Cash Back at Ebates) that your giftees will actually use and not just re-gift to their worst frenemie.
DIY Rubber Duck
Bring out their inner artist with this adorable paint-your-own duck kit. Yes, this may be a kid gift but if it lands on someone with kids of their own, you just saved them the cost of a stocking stuffer!
3-D Cats Playing Cards
Add a little cat fancy to their full house. Most people could use a deck or two of playing cards but pretty much everyone could use some 3-D kitties in their life.
Muffin Top Baking Cups
Silicone baking cups are extremely handy, especially if you just want to bake a couple of treats and not feed a small army. These cups come with a sense of humor AND a subtle reminder to moderate your holiday carbs.
Luchador Bottle Opener
Beat that bottle of brew into submission with your very own mini masked wrestler. Cracking open a Coke never felt so victorious.
Dog Butt Magnet Set
We realize that a butt may not be the most favorite part of a dog, but they certainly look adorable holding up photos and reminders on your refrigerator.
Moose Mug
Even if you’re never seen National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, this is still a cute piece for holiday parties. Chugging nog has never looked so kitschy.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Kit
The ugliest sweaters are the ones we make ourselves but who has time to go to an actual craft store for supplies and a second-hand store for a cheap sweater? Save them two trips and a lot of sanity with this festive DIY kit.
Log Pillow
Sleep like a log, on a log. This plush pillow only looks rough around the edges and will hopefully go to someone who has an affinity for rustic home decor.
Public Pay Phone iPhone 6 Case
It makes your phone look like a phone, get it? This iPhone case will have them nostalgic for the days of dial-up and Hammer pants.
Elephant Head Wall Decor 
Alas, no white elephant gift guide would be complete without a literal white elephant. However, we thought this piece of wall art was actually quite elegant and a nice alternative to that lame porcelain figurine you were thinking of getting for the same ironic effect. Put it down. Back away.
Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.
